Perceived autonomy, anxiety, depression, and parental behavior did not differ between groups; those with anaphylaxis reported more worry and parental overprotection than those with less severe allergies.

Recognize that anaphylactic individuals and their parents are at particular risk for psychological distress; further study is needed.

Allergy had less impact on allergic individuals’ lives than others thought; allergic youth with high health competence reported greatest anxiety; few subjects knew the meaning of the term “anaphylaxis.”

Health education is needed in this population; increased vigilance among health competent individuals may increase anxiety or anxious individuals may self-diagnose food allergy; more research is needed.